Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Explore Malibu's scenic vineyards on a guided 2-hour hike with photo stops, native history, and a taste of regional wine. Perfect for beginners and outdoor lovers.
If you’re looking to combine outdoor adventure, scenic views, and a bit of wine tasting during your visit to Malibu, this guided vineyard hike promises just that. Usually lasting around two hours, the experience takes you through private ranch land with sweeping vistas of California’s famous coastal landscape. It’s a light, beginner-friendly trek that’s ideal for those who want a relaxed yet immersive way to discover Malibu’s countryside. Whether you’re a casual hiker, a budding photographer, or a wine enthusiast, this tour offers a memorable slice of California charm.
One thing to be aware of is that this is an outdoor activity, so unpredictable weather — especially heat or unexpected rain — may impact your comfort and experience. The terrain includes stairs and uneven surfaces, making it less suitable for anyone with mobility limitations or difficulty climbing stairs. Still, for those who enjoy gentle hikes surrounded by nature, it’s quite manageable and very rewarding.
What we especially love about this experience are the stunning panoramic views and the informative guides who add context, humor, and friendliness to the journey. Plus, the chance to sample regional wines—including two cans to take home—adds an authentic, tasty touch that elevates the outing from a simple walk to a full sensory experience. The only potential downside? Non-drinkers or those who dislike rescheduling might need to plan accordingly, as food isn’t included, and alcohol isn’t permitted during the hike itself.
Walking into Malibu’s countryside as part of this guided hike means stepping away from crowded tourist hubs and into a quieter, naturally stunning landscape. The tour starts at a specific check-in point—accessed by parking at 32111 Mulholland Hwy—making logistics straightforward for visitors staying nearby or traveling from L.A.
After the safety briefing, we’re led on a roughly 2.5-mile loop around a private ranch with diverse scenery—rolling hills, grazing horses, llamas, alpacas, goats, donkeys, and more. As the guide narrates, you’ll learn about the native flora and fauna and how this landscape shapes the terroir of the regional wine. The informality of having a guide who’s both knowledgeable and humorous adds a lot to the journey, little moments where you find yourself smiling at anecdotes or perspectives on vineyard life.
The first part of the trek offers a chance to see the ranch’s inhabitants up close. Many reviewers mention how engaging and friendly the guides are—”Maddi was very fun and knowledgeable,” one recent traveler notes—making the experience warm and personable. You’re likely to pass horses, llamas, donkeys, and goats, providing a chance for fun photo moments.
If you’re hiking earlier in the evening, you might get to see some of these animals relaxing during sunset. The guide also points out the various flora, which adds to the visual richness of the landscape.
As the group proceeds into the vineyards, expect to learn about the grapes grown here and the family-owned vineyard’s history. We loved the way guides make complex topics—including wine production—easy to follow and interesting. The emphasis on the regional varietals, combined with the personable storytelling, turns a walk into a mini-lesson in winemaking that’s utterly approachable.
A unique feature is a photo stop with an oversized frame, offering what might be the most Instagram-worthy snap of the day. This gives you a chance to remember this special outing with a great shot.
A highlight for many is viewing the Chumash cave paintings. This adds depth and meaning to the experience—reminding visitors of the area’s long history before vineyards or Hollywood blocks became dominant. Guides typically explain these artifacts in a respectful, educational way, making the cultural aspect more meaningful rather than superficial.
Halfway through, there’s a 20-minute rest stop that provides a relaxed atmosphere for conversations, taking photos, or simply soaking in the views. We found that this pause enhances the overall enjoyment—giving everyone a moment to breathe and appreciate the landscape.
Returning to the vineyards, you’ll spend additional time soaking in the scenery and enjoying the ambiance. The terrain remains gentle but includes stairs, which might pose a challenge for some. In total, the hike flows smoothly, with enough variety in scenery to keep you engaged but not exhausted.
As the tour concludes back at the starting point, you’ll receive two cans of regional wine—a thoughtful souvenir and add-on that heightens the sense of a genuine, memorable outing.
For around $49 per person, this experience is quite reasonably priced considering what’s included: guided tour, scenic hiking, cultural insights, and two cans of wine to take home. No food is included, but there are plenty of nearby eateries if you wish to extend your culinary experience afterward.
Critics and guests consistently praise the guides, who are described as “friendly,” “well-informed,” and adding humor to the journey. One reviewer remarked, “Bradford gave us a great tour—very informative and fun,” underscoring the value of engaging leadership.
While some might find it a bit brisk—there’s no long time for rest or extensive tasting—it’s balanced well for those interested in a light outdoor activity combined with wine tasting. This makes it particularly suitable for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers wanting a taste of Malibu’s natural beauty without overly strenuous effort.
This hike is best suited for beginners, outdoor enthusiasts, and those curious about local Native American history and California wine. It’s ideal for anyone looking for a relaxed, educational outing that blends scenery, culture, and light activity.
Couples or small groups will appreciate the intimate nature of the ranch and the photo opportunities. If you’re traveling with children, note that the terrain includes stairs and may not suit anyone with mobility issues or pre-existing medical conditions. Also, since alcohol is not permitted during the hike, non-drinkers can enjoy the experience without concern—though they may opt to purchase bottles at the vineyard afterward.
Ultimately, this tour offers authentic California charm in a succinct, well-paced format. It’s a wonderful way to see Malibu’s wine country from a fresh perspective—on foot—and to connect with local history, nature, and good wine.
If you’re after an experience that’s more than just a drive-by or a quick tasting, this guided vineyard hike provides an engaging mix of panoramic vistas, native heritage, and wine sampling—all in an easy-to-do format. The combination of beautiful scenery, approachable guides, and the chance to sample regional wines makes it a compelling choice for many travelers.
It’s especially suitable for those wanting a light outdoor adventure that doesn’t require strenuous effort or elaborate planning but still offers a genuine slice of Malibu’s unique landscape. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or in a small group, you’ll probably find this hiking tour combines fun, learning, and good taste—without breaking the bank.
How long does the tour last?
The hike typically takes about 2 hours, depending on pace and stops, such as the scenic photo break and rest.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 32111 Mulholland Hwy and ends back at the same location, making logistics straightforward.
Do I need to bring anything?
Just your driver’s license. Since drinks aren’t allowed during the hike, no need to bring alcohol, but bringing water and comfortable shoes is recommended.
Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, it is open to all ages, but since the terrain includes stairs and moderate inclines, it may not be suitable for everyone with mobility issues or pre-existing conditions.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—allowing some flexibility if your schedule shifts.
Do I get to taste wine during the hike?
No, during the walk, alcohol isn’t permitted, but you’ll head to the vineyard afterward or take home two cans of regional wine that are part of the experience.
What sets this tour apart from other Malibu activities?
Its combination of light hiking, native cultural spotting, stunning vistas, and wine tasting makes it a well-rounded, memorable experience suitable for beginners.
Is this a good value?
Absolutely—especially given the multiple highlights, guided insights, views, and wine. The price is reasonable considering the quality and scope.
Are guide tips included?
Not explicitly stated. Typically, guides appreciate gratuities if you’re pleased with the experience.
Can I bring my own refreshments?
No, outside drinks aren’t allowed during the hike, in accordance with tour policy.
This guided vineyard hike offers a delightful way to see Malibu’s countryside without the hassle of planning complex activities. If the idea of light walking, picture-taking, indigenous history, and wine appeals, it’s worth reserving a spot.